CARPE DIEM

Brooke Tagliaferro of Lake Forest truly understands the art of living in the moment. It’s a life skill she learned from her late grandmother, Shirley Leifer, who continues to inspire her as a wife, mother, and volunteer. “When I was about 10 years old, my grandmother picked me up to take me for tea,” explains Tagliaferro. “I did not like the dress my mom put me in so my grandmother decided we had to stop at Saks first.” They spent the afternoon shopping and while she still remembers the outfit they ultimately picked out together, what she cherishes most was the conversation they had that day. It’s a memory she’ll never forget. A native of Mission Hills, Kansas, Tagliaferro says she met her husband Christopher through a mutual friend at the University of Kansas. “We didn’t start dating until I moved to Chicago,” she adds, explaining that the couple’s early years were spent in the city. “We went out to all the restaurants and really took advantage of all that Chicago has to offer, but knew we ultimately wanted to raise our family in Lake Forest.” Today, as mother to 10-year-old Robbie and 9-year-old Annie, Tagliaferro has volunteered and served on committees at both of her children’s schools and led the publication of the school yearbook. “It’s a big commitment, but so much fun,” she says, explaining that after four years at the helm, she’ll now be taking a smaller role. “A yearbook is such a sign of the times and brings so much joy to the kids. They love seeing their own pictures and their friends’ pictures as they look through the pages.” While she enjoys helping young people make memories the way she did with her grandmother all those years ago, she said it was a team effort. “I was lucky to have great help from other parent volunteers and the support of the staff so I didn’t feel too much pressure,” she says. “However, the team definitely wanted to do the best we could since we know it means so much to people.” This super mom, super connector, and super planner recently took time from her busy schedule to share some of her favorite things about her adopted community.

Favorite thing about Lake Forest? The community and all the opportunities, events, and clubs for kids as well as adults. I feel like there is something for everyone here. Favorite Valentine’s Day memory? Oh 2014! Finding out I was pregnant with my daughter, Annie! What is most rewarding about your volunteer work? Knowing that people appreciate my help. Even if it’s something small, every bit counts. Though, I have taken a step back this year. I’m learning how to say “no” more. As my friend Ann Barbour puts it, saying “no” means saying “yes” to other things. Beach, mountain, or city for vacation? Mountains! Any time of year. Hiking or skiing. I love it all! Favorite place in the world, so far? I love to travel and have so many places I want to see. But my happy place is my parents’ home in Scottsdale. Top three favorite restaurants? In the world? I love Frenchie in Paris; Buca Mario in Florence; and Bavette’s in Chicago. In Lake Forest/Lake Bluff, I love Le Colonial, Deer Path Inn, and The Gallery. Favorite rom com? Overboard Favorite color? Green Favorite music to listen to while driving? Oh, depends on my mood. But lately it’s been Audible. Best beauty tip? What you put in your body is more important that what you put on your body. And sleep! Favorite way to unwind? A long walk with my dog, Teddie, listening to a podcast or a novel. Pets? Teddie, my Golden Retriever (aka my favorite child … just kidding). Favorite TV show to binge? I could always watch medical dramas over and over. House was so good. Designer or brand you can’t live without? Tags diamonds.